nelson mandela, nelson mandela, akekho ofana naye. [applause] the song is one of the most accurate descriptions of this global icon who is the founding president of a free and democratic south africa and also the former president of the oldest liberation movement in the continent, the anc. [applause] his passing has marked an unprecedented outpouring of grief across the world. yet, it is grief, tinged with admiration and celebration. everyone has had a mandela moment, when this world icon has touched their lives. let us begin, therefore, by thanking all the heads of state and government, international delegations present here today. we also extend our deepest gratitude for the messages of condolences that we continue to receive. the mandela family, the south african people, and the african continent as a whole, feel stronger today, because we are being comforted by millions throughout the world. dear south africans, that we are madiba's compatriots and have lived during his time is a cause for a great celebration and enormous pride. n